Auto Parts: drain pan removal, lube shops, drain pan


Question
How do you remove the transmission fluid drain pan from a 1993 automatic Mazda 323 without having to take off the under bracket located directly under the drain pan?

Answer
    You could jack up the engine/trans assembly, like you have to do for some other types of service.  But, if getting the pan off is all you want to do, I would remove the bracket.  If you are doing this to change the fluid, you might want to consider the trans fluid change service that many lube shops offer, where they swap out the fluid and clean the system through the cooling hoses without disturbing the pan.  I was dubious about this at first, but it seems to be an effective solution to a difficult problem and sometimes even comes with a warranty.  Shop around for price, though; I have seen them vary wildly.